Leash Aggression: "You're All Right" Exercise

I've had quite a few clients with leash aggression or leash reactivity in the past few months.  I have a method that uses positive reinforcement to help desensitize your pooch to others on a leash.  May it be leash reactive to humans or dogs, this method can apply.

Needed for this exercise:
High Value Moist Treat or Motivator
Leashed dog
Non-Slip Collar(Nylon)
Clicker
Volunteer(s) w/ non-reactive dog
Volunteer(s) w/ reactive dog

First, one must establish their dog's threshold. The threshold is the distance between the dog and the stress causing item(dog or human), for this exercise we will use dog, before your dog begins to react to the stress.  For some this may be 40 ft, 50 ft or even 100ft.  Have your volunteer start with the non-reactive dog at this threshold. When your dog's attention reverts to the volunteer, and he does not react, say "You're all right" click and treat.
Slowly, take a few steps forward towards the volunteer. If the dog stay unreactive, repeat "you're all right" click and treat. If the dog reacts(lunges or barks), call his name, waive the treat in front of his nose, once he looks at you, ask him to sit, say "You're all right" if the the dog continues to look at you and not the volunteer, click and treat.
Gradually, takes steps forward repeating the above steps.  It may be that you take two steps forward one step back, or that this exercise may take a while to get within walking or passing distance.  Each dog is different.
Once your dog has mastered the neutral non-reactive dog, then repeat the exercise with the reactive dog. This will take time with each dog.  Stay positive and consistent.

Please consult a trainer for more details or help with the exercise.  Email me with success stories!

Dari Ferguson
Head Trainer/Owner
www.backinthepack.com
info@backinthepack.com